Bouldering outside differs in so many ways from modern gym  climbing, and the gap is only getting larger! With macros and enormous volumes taking centre stage, crimps and foot jibs on steeper walls fading away, and gym grades getting softer than a chocolate teapot, the transition to outdoor bouldering is only getting tougher. 

How we structure our sessions is hugely important in determining our success. The more we plan, perfect and reflect on our process, the more successful we become.

Walking away from a boulder is one of the hardest things to practice in bouldering. It feels like quitting, and nobody likes to quit. But in reality, it’s one of the biggest skills, and practicing it offers a huge number of benefits, as well as avoiding a bunch of very frustrating problems!

A look at a few key things we can do, to not only improve our chances of the flash, but then if we whiff on that, still have the presence of mind and psyche to finish the boulder!